Devices and methods for sexual wellness

ABSTRACT

Some adult devices are ostensibly marketed to improve female sexual experience female by offering exercises to address relaxed vaginal muscles from birth, age, surgery etc. and for reducing incontinence. However, such devices suffer from variable placement by the user both in terms of orientation and penetrative depth such that the “results” are not reproducible and captured data used to provide feedback to the user and/or providing visual/audible prompts is flawed. Accordingly, it would be beneficial to provide a device with reproducible placement and data for enhancing the usability/benefit of the exercise regimen. It would be further beneficial for the device to either provide this exercise regime as part of a wider assessment of sexual wellness or as part of a sexual stimulation activity thereby reducing the focus on “exercise” to derive the benefits of improved pelvic muscle control.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication 62/050,115 filed Sep. 13, 2014 entitled “Device and Methodof Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise”, the entire contents of which areincluded by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to adult devices and more particularly to theprovisioning of pelvic and sphincter muscle monitoring within devicesassessing sexual wellness and/or providing sexual stimulation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A sex toy or adult device is an object or device that is primarily usedto facilitate human sexual pleasure which are typically designed toresemble human genitals and may be mechanized and non-mechanized.Mechanized adult devices typically vibrate, although there are examplesthat rotate, thrust, and even circulate small beads within anelastomeric shell. Non-mechanized adult devices are made from a solidmass of rigid or semi-rigid material in a variety of shapes.Accordingly, today, a wide range of adult devices are offeredcommercially to users with the majority of them falling into severalbroad categories including clitoral, (G-spot), dildo, rabbit (generallycomprising two vibrators, one phallus-like shaped intended for insertionand a second smaller clitoral stimulator), egg (small smooth vibratorsfor external or internal stimulation although now offered in a range ofshapes), anal, penis ring, bullet (small cylindrical vibrators),c-shaped (for generally hands free use by insertion into the vagina withone or two vibrators for clitoral and/or g-spot stimulation includingvariants for use during penile penetration) and Butterfly (generally avibrator with straps). Further, for men there are adult devices with arange of vibrations and movements associated with the penis.

In addition there are devices such as Kegel balls or Ben-Wa balls whichare ostensibly marketed to improve the sexual experience for the femaleuser by offering vaginal muscle exercises to address relaxed vaginalmuscles from birth, age, surgery etc. and also to reduce femaleincontinence. However, these generally include vibrating elements andhence are also categorized under adult devices rather than medicaldevices. However, such devices are generally subject to variableplacement by the user both in terms of orientation and penetrative depthsuch that the “results” are not reproducible such that the data capturedby the software application providing feedback to the user and/orproviding visual/audible prompts is flawed.

Accordingly, it would be beneficial to provide users with a device thatprovide reproducible placement and accordingly reproducible data forenhancing the usability/benefit of the user following an exerciseregimen. It would be further beneficial for the device to either providethe exercise regime as part of a wider assessment of sexual wellness forthe user or provide the exercise regime as part of a sexual stimulationactivity so that the user does not always have to perform an “exercise”to derive the benefits of improved pelvic muscle control.

Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparentto those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the followingdescription of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction withthe accompanying figures.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to mitigate limitations withinthe prior art relating to adult devices and more particularly to theprovisioning of pelvic muscle monitoring within devices assessing sexualwellness and/or providing sexual stimulation.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided asexual wellness device comprising:

-   a pillow formed from a flexible material defining an inner volume    and having an opening at an end; and-   a socket formed from an inflexible material having in a first    predetermined location a fitting onto which the open end of the    pillow mounts, a pressure sensor fluidically coupled to the fitting,    a controller electrically coupled to the pressure sensor, and a    battery electrically connected to at least the controller.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided amethod of adjusting sexual wellness for a user comprising:

-   providing a pillow formed from a flexible material defining an inner    volume and having an opening at an end;-   providing a socket formed from an inflexible material having in a    first predetermined location a fitting onto which the open end of    the pillow mounts, a pressure sensor fluidically coupled to the    fitting, a controller electrically coupled to the pressure sensor,    and a battery electrically connected to at least the controller; and-   monitoring an action of the user with respect to the pillow    resulting in a pressure fluctuation and providing the user with    feedback as to their performance.

Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparentto those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the followingdescription of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction withthe accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way ofexample only, with reference to the attached Figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts a cross section of an adult device according to anembodiment of the invention with three dimensional (3D) surfacecurvature highlighted;

FIG. 2 depicts a cross-section of an adult device according to anembodiment of the invention with major elements identified;

FIG. 3 depicts an adult device according to an embodiment of theinvention with additional sensor(s) depicted;

FIG. 4 depicts an exploded view of an adult device according to anembodiment of the invention as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 showing themajor elements of the device and potential construction methodology;

FIG. 5 depicts a 3D rendering of an adult device according to anembodiment of the invention focusing to the grip;

FIGS. 6A and 6B depict a user and another user holding an adult deviceaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 depicts views of a handle of an adult device according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 depicts the asymmetry within an adult device according to anembodiment of the invention through different cross-sections;

FIG. 9 depicts a side view and a cross-sectional side view of an adultdevice according to an embodiment of the invention with additionalclitoral stimulator;

FIG. 10 depicts a side view and two cross-sectional side views of anadult device according to an embodiment of the invention with vaginaland anal elements;

FIG. 11A depicts a side view and a cross-sectional side view of an adultdevice according to an embodiment of the invention with vaginal and analelements together with a clitoral stimulator;

FIG. 11B depicts side views of an adult device according to anembodiment of the invention with changeable vaginal and/or anal elementstogether with a clitoral stimulator;

FIG. 12 depicts portions of an adult device according to an embodimentof the invention depicting additional labial thermistors for arousalmonitoring;

FIG. 13 depicts portions of an adult device according to an embodimentof the invention depicting additional optical emitter/detector elementsfor arousal monitoring via laser Doppler imaging andphotoplethysmography;

FIG. 14A depicts a portion of an adult device according to an embodimentof the invention depicting additional electrical contacts and acousticsensors for arousal monitoring and sexual wellness monitoring;

FIG. 14B depicts a portion of an adult device according to an embodimentof the invention depicting partitioning to four chambers;

FIG. 15 depicts a network environment within which embodiments of theinvention may be employed;

FIG. 16 depicts a wireless portable electronic device supportingcommunications to a network such as depicted in FIG. 15 and assupporting embodiments of the invention with respect to adult devices;

FIG. 17 depicts a side view and in use view of an adult device accordingto an embodiment of the invention designed for extended insertion andworn as a wearable device; and

FIG. 18 depicts screenshots from an application in execution upon aportable electronic device providing a user interface for an adultdevice according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed to adult devices and more particularlyto the provisioning of pelvic muscle monitoring within devices assessingsexual wellness and/or providing sexual stimulation.

The ensuing description provides representative embodiment(s) only, andis not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration ofthe disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the embodiment(s)will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description forimplementing an embodiment or embodiments of the invention. It beingunderstood that various changes can be made in the function andarrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope asset forth in the appended claims. Accordingly, an embodiment is anexample or implementation of the inventions and not the soleimplementation. Various appearances of “one embodiment,” “an embodiment”or “some embodiments” do not necessarily all refer to the sameembodiments. Although various features of the invention may be describedin the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be providedseparately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although theinvention may be described herein in the context of separate embodimentsfor clarity, the invention can also be implemented in a singleembodiment or any combination of embodiments.

Reference in the specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”,“some embodiments” or “other embodiments” means that a particularfeature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with theembodiments is included in at least one embodiment, but not necessarilyall embodiments, of the inventions. The phraseology and terminologyemployed herein is not to be construed as limiting but is fordescriptive purpose only. It is to be understood that where the claimsor specification refer to “a” or “an” element, such reference is not tobe construed as there being only one of that element. It is to beunderstood that where the specification states that a component feature,structure, or characteristic “may”, “might”, “can” or “could” beincluded, that particular component, feature, structure, orcharacteristic is not required to be included. Similarly, “option”,“mode”, alternative”, “feature”, “an embodiment” are when used in thecontext of describing this invention, referring specifically to variousembodiments of this invention. All descriptions herein are non-limiting,as one trained in the art will appreciate, and that alternateembodiments of the invention other that those described are possibleand/or feasible.

Reference to terms such as “left”, “right”, “top”, “bottom”, “front” and“back” are intended for use in respect to the orientation of theparticular feature, structure, or element within the figures depictingembodiments of the invention. It would be evident that such directionalterminology with respect to the actual use of a device has no specificmeaning as the device can be employed in a multiplicity of orientationsby the user or users. Reference to terms “including”, “comprising”,“consisting” and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude theaddition of one or more components, features, steps, integers or groupsthereof and that the terms are not to be construed as specifyingcomponents, features, steps or integers. Likewise the phrase “consistingessentially of”, and grammatical variants thereof, when used herein isnot to be construed as excluding additional components, steps, featuresintegers or groups thereof but rather that the additional features,integers, steps, components or groups thereof do not materially alterthe basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, deviceor method. If the specification or claims refer to “an additional”element, that does not preclude there being more than one of theadditional element.

Any reference within this specification in respect of physical axes issuch that the vagina is assumed to run from the distal end of thesuperior-inferior human axis proximal towards the superior end of theaxis. The entrance to the vagina is approximately in the transverseplane. Accordingly, the “Y” axis, where referenced and/or depicted, isalong the superior-inferior axis, with positive towards the superior.The “X” axis, where referenced and/or depicted, is in theanteroposterior axis, with positive towards posterior.

A “portable electronic device” (PED) as used herein and throughout thisdisclosure, refers to a wireless device used for communications andother applications that requires a battery or other independent form ofenergy for power. This includes devices, but is not limited to, such asa cellular telephone, smartphone, personal digital assistant (PDA),portable computer, pager, portable multimedia player, portable gamingconsole, laptop computer, tablet computer, a wearable device and anelectronic reader.

A “fixed electronic device” (FED) as used herein and throughout thisdisclosure, refers to a wireless and /or wired device used forcommunications and other applications that requires connection to afixed interface to obtain power. This includes, but is not limited to, alaptop computer, a personal computer, a computer server, a kiosk, agaming console, a digital set-top box, an analog set-top box, anInternet enabled appliance, an Internet enabled television, and amultimedia player.

A “server” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to oneor more physical computers co-located and/or geographically distributedrunning one or more services as a host to users of other computers,PEDs, FEDs, etc. to serve the client needs of these other users. Thisincludes, but is not limited to, a database server, file server, mailserver, print server, web server, gaming server, or virtual environmentserver.

An “application” (commonly referred to as an “app”) as used herein mayrefer to, but is not limited to, a “software application”, an element ofa “software suite”, a computer program designed to allow an individualto perform an activity, a computer program designed to allow anelectronic device to perform an activity, and a computer programdesigned to communicate with local and/or remote electronic devices. Anapplication thus differs from an operating system (which runs acomputer), a utility (which performs maintenance or general-purposechores), and a programming tools (with which computer programs arecreated). Generally, within the following description with respect toembodiments of the invention an application is generally presented inrespect of software permanently and/or temporarily installed upon a PEDand/or FED.

A “user” as used herein may refer to, but is not limited to, anindividual or group of individuals. This includes, but is not limitedto, private individuals, employees of organizations and/or enterprises,members of community organizations, members of charity organizations,men and women. In its broadest sense the user may further include, butnot be limited to, software systems, mechanical systems, roboticsystems, android systems, etc. that may be characterised by an abilityto exploit one or more embodiments of the invention. A user may beassociated with biometric data which may be, but not limited to,monitored, acquired, stored, transmitted, processed and analysed eitherlocally or remotely to the user. A user may also be associated throughone or more accounts and/or profiles with one or more of a serviceprovider, third party provider, enterprise, social network, social mediaetc. via a dashboard, web service, website, software plug-in, softwareapplication, and graphical user interface.

“User information” as used herein may refer to, but is not limited to,user behavior information and/or user profile information. It may alsoinclude a user's biometric information, an estimation of the user'sbiometric information, or a projection/prediction of a user's biometricinformation derived from current and/or historical biometricinformation.

A “wearable device” or “wearable sensor” relates to miniature electronicdevices that are worn by the user including those under, within, with oron top of clothing and are part of a broader general class of wearabletechnology which includes “wearable computers” which in contrast aredirected to general or special purpose information technologies andmedia development. Such wearable devices and/or wearable sensors mayinclude, but not be limited to, smartphones, smart watches, e-textiles,smart shirts, activity trackers, smart glasses, environmental sensors,medical sensors, biological sensors, physiological sensors, chemicalsensors, ambient environment sensors, position sensors, neurologicalsensors, drug delivery systems, medical testing and diagnosis devices,and motion sensors. The wearable devices and/or wearable sensors mayinclude, but not be limited to, devices that can stimulate and/ormeasure parameters that are designed to fit on or near the perineum,anal area, vagina, clitoral area, and nipples.

“Biometric” information as used herein may refer to, but is not limitedto, data relating to a user characterised by data relating to a subsetof conditions including, but not limited to, their environment, medicalcondition, biological condition, physiological condition, chemicalcondition, ambient environment condition, position condition,neurological condition, drug condition, and one or more specific aspectsof one or more of these said conditions. Accordingly, such biometricinformation may include, but not be limited, blood oxygenation, bloodpressure, blood flow rate, heart rate, temperate, fluidic pH, viscosity,particulate content, solids content, altitude, vibration, motion,perspiration, EEG, ECG, energy level, etc. In addition biometricinformation may include data relating to physiological characteristicsrelated to the shape and/or condition of the body wherein examples mayinclude, but are not limited to, fingerprint, facial geometry, baldness,DNA, hand geometry, odour, and scent. Biometric information may alsoinclude data relating to behavioral characteristics, including but notlimited to, typing rhythm, gait, and voice.

An “adult device”, “sexual pleasure device”, or “sex toy” as usedherein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to a sexual pleasuredevice intended for use by an individual or user themselves or inconjunction with activities with another individual or user which canprovide one or more functions including, but not limited to, those of adildo and a vibrator. The adult device can be designed to have thesefunctions in combination with design features that are intended to bepenetrative or non-penetrative, provide vibratory and non-vibratorymechanical functions, or be passive. Such adult devices can be designedfor use with one or more regions of the male and female bodies includingbut not limited to, the clitoris, the clitoral area (which is the areasurrounding and including the clitoris), vagina, rectum, nipples,breasts, penis, testicles, prostate, and “G-spot.” In one example a“male adult device” is an adult device configured to receive a user'spenis within a cavity or recess. In another example, a “female adultdevice” is an adult device having at least a portion configured to beinserted in a user's vagina or rectum. It should be understood that theuser of a female adult device can be a male or a female when it is usedfor insertion in a user's rectum. Such adult devices may employ one ormore actuation mechanisms when providing vibratory and non-vibratorymechanical functions including, but not limited to, motors, motors withoff-axis weights, linear motors, screw drives, fluidic pumps, fluidicactuators, and piezoelectric elements.

An “accessory” or “accessories” as used herein, and throughout thisdisclosure, refers to one or more objects that can be affixed to orotherwise appended to the body of a sexual pleasure device in order toenhance and/or adjust the sensation(s) provided. Such accessories can bepassive, such as nubbies or a dildo, or active, such as a vibrator.

A “profile” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to acomputer and/or microprocessor readable data file comprising datarelating to settings and/or limits of an adult device. Such profiles maybe established by a manufacturer of the adult device or established byan individual through a user interface to the adult device or a PED/FEDin communication with the adult device.

A “vibrator” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers toan electronic sexual pleasure device intended for use by an individualor user themselves or in conjunction with activities with anotherindividual or user wherein the vibrator provides a vibratory mechanicalfunction for stimulating nerves or triggering physical sensations.

A “dildo” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to asexual pleasure device intended for use by an individual or userthemselves or in conjunction with activities with another individual oruser wherein the dildo provides non-vibratory mechanical function forstimulating nerves or triggering physical sensations.

A “nubby” or “nubbies” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure,refers to a projection or projections upon the surface of a sexualpleasure device intended to provide additional physical interaction. Anubby can be permanently part of the sexual pleasure device or it can bereplaceable or interchangeable to provide additional variation to thesexual pleasure device.

An “accessory” or “accessories” as used herein, and throughout thisdisclosure, refers to one or more objects that can be affixed to orotherwise appended to the body of a sexual pleasure device in order toenhance and/or adjust the sensation(s) provided. Such accessories can bepassive, such as nubbies or a dildo, or active, such as a vibrator.

A “scaffold” or “scaffolds” as used herein, and throughout thisdisclosure, refers to a structure that is used to hold up, interfacewith, or support another material or element(s). This includes, but isnot limited to, such two-dimensional (2D) structures such as substratesand films, three-dimensional (3D) structures such as geometricalobjects, non-geometrical objects, combinations of geometrical andnon-geometrical objects, naturally occurring structural configurations,and manmade structural configurations. A scaffold may be solid, hollow,and porous or a combination thereof. A scaffold may contain recesses,pores, openings, holes, vias, and channels or a combination thereof. Ascaffold may be smooth, textured, have predetermined surface profilesand/or features. A scaffold may be intended to support one or more othermaterials, one or more films, a multilayer film, one type of particle,multiple types of particles etc. A scaffold may include, but not belimited to, a spine of a device and/or a framework, for example, whichalso supports a shell and/or a casing.

A “shell” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to astructure that is used to contain and/or surround at least partiallyand/or fully a number of elements within adult devices according toembodiments of the invention. A shell may include, but not limited to, apart or parts that are mounted to a scaffold or scaffolds that supportelements within a device according to an embodiment of the invention.

A “casing” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to astructure surrounding a scaffold and/or shell. This includes structurestypically formed from an elastomer and/or silicone to provide a desiredcombination of physical tactile surface properties to the device itforms part of and other properties including, but not limited to,hermeticity, liquid ingress barrier, solid particulate ingress barrier,surface sheen, and colour. A casing may include, but not limited to, apart or parts that are mounted to a scaffold or scaffolds and/or acasing or casings forming part of a device according to an embodiment ofthe invention.

A “pillow” (also called a “sleeve”) as used herein, and throughout thisdisclosure, refers to a flexible, compressible portion of an adultdevice designed for insertion into an orifice of a user, for example thevagina or anus. This may be a region of the adult device that is filledwith a fluid, either liquid or gas, at atmospheric pressure, aboveatmospheric pressure or below atmospheric pressure. A pillow may betotally inserted or only a portion of the pillow may be inserted. Apillow may be shaped to fit the orifice for which it is intended to beinserted, e.g. the vagina or anus, but it would be evident that thepillow may also be inserted into an orifice it is not designed for orthat the pillow may be generically shaped for insertion into anyorifice.

A “polyester” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers toa category of polymers that contain the ester functional group in theirmain chain. This includes, but is not limited to polyesters which arenaturally occurring chemicals as well as synthetics through step-growthpolymerization, for example. Polyesters may be biodegradable or not.Polyesters may be a thermoplastic or thermoset or resins cured byhardeners. Polyesters may be aliphatic, semi-aromatic or aromatic.Polyesters may include, but not be limited to, those exploitingpolyglycolide, polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL),polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), polyethyleneadipate (PEA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polyethylene terephthalate(PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polytrimethylene terephthalate(PTT), and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN).

A “thermoplastic” or “thermosoftening plastic” as used herein andthroughout this disclosure, refers to a category of polymers that becomepliable or moldable above a specific temperature and solidify uponcooling. Thermoplastics may include, but not be limited, polycarbonate(PC), polyether sulfone (PES), polyether ether ketone (PEEK),polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), poly vinyl chloride (PVC),polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyimide (PI), polyphenylsulfone(PPSU), polychlorotrifluoroethene (PCTFE or PTFCE), florinated ethylenepropylene (FEP), and perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA).

A “metal” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to amaterial that has good electrical and thermal conductivity. Suchmaterials may be malleable and/or fusible and/or ductile. Metals mayinclude, but not be limited to, aluminum, nickel, copper, cobalt,chromium, silver, gold, platinum, iron, zinc, titanium, and alloysthereof such as bronze, stainless steel, stainless steel, brass, andphosphor bronze.

A “silicone” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to apolymer that includes any inert, synthetic compound made up of repeatingunits of siloxane.

An “elastomeric” material or “elastomer” as used herein, and throughoutthis disclosure, refers to a material, generally a polymer, withviscoelasticity. Elastomers may include, but not be limited to,unsaturated rubbers such as polyisoprene, butyl rubber, ethylenepropylene rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber,fluoroelastomers, perfluoroelastomers, and thermoplastic elastomers.

The terms “woman” or “female” as used herein, and throughout thisdisclosure, refers to a human having a clitoris or clitoral region and,optionally, a vagina and/or an anus. The terms “woman” and “female” areused interchangeably herein. A female may be a user, an individual,another user, and/or another individual within contexts of thespecification.

The terms “man” or “male” as used herein, and throughout thisdisclosure, refers to a human having a penis and, optionally, testesand/or an anus. The terms “man” and “male” are used interchangeablyherein. A male may be a user, an individual, another user, and/oranother individual within contexts of the specification.

The term “flexible,” as used herein, refers to the ability of a bodythat is capable of being bent or flexed. Something that is flexible canbe, for example, resilient or malleable. The term “resilient,” as usedherein, refers to the ability of a body that has been subjected to anexternal force to recover, or substantially recover, its original sizeand/or shape, following deformation. The term “malleable,” as usedherein, refers to the ability of a body that has been subjected to anexternal force to deform and maintain, or substantially maintain, thedeformed size and/or shape. The term “flexible,” as used herein, refersto the ability of a body that has been subjected to an external force toreturn to its original size and/or shape once the external force hasbeen removed or reduced to below a particular level.

As used herein, the terms “sex”, “intercourse”, “sexual intercourse” areintended to have a meaning referring to an act or action between twousers wherein part of the act or action relates to the stimulation ofone user's or both user's clitoris and/or clitoral region. Such acts oractions may or may not involve the concurrent penetration of a user'svagina, anus, or mouth and may be male-female, female-female, andsolitary female based acts or actions.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4 and 8 respectively there are depicted anembodiment of the invention comprising the following components:

-   -   a flexible sleeve, or pillow, which is inserted into the vagina;    -   a socket; and    -   an electronics module.

Some embodiments of the invention may include software and/or firmwarein conjunction with the hardware to provide the adult device systems,applications, and platforms (ADSAPs) as described and discussed withinthis specification.

ADult DEVices (ADDEVs) according to embodiments of the invention exploita sleeve or pillow is hollow with an air chamber or chambers inside.When the pillow is squeezed, its volume reduces causing a pressureincrease. The pillow is attached to the socket via an airtight joint orcoupling wherein an airway connects the air in the pillow to air in thesocket. Within the socket is a pressure sensor. The socket is made froma low flexibility material so that its volume changes minimally withpressure and accordingly by virtue of being less flexible it changesvolume with pressure less than the pillow such that the pillow volumechanges dominate in the pressure variations coupled through the airwayto the pressure sensor or pressure sensors. For example, the pillow maybe formed from a medical grade silicone whilst the socket may be plasticformed, for example, from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), lowdensity polyurethane (LDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene,polyamides, and polycarbonate.

The airway connects the chamber in the interior of the socket and mayhave a single compartment or more than one compartment, with respect toairflow as well as in respect to multiple chambers within the pillow.The use of the airway is novel as it is possible to restrict the airflowfrom the pillow chamber to the socket and back in a manner that a timeconstant for two-way airflow is created. This time constant representsan improvement over prior art and, the airway, in some embodiments,behaves as a constricting airway causing the return air from the socketto the pillow to be slowed when the muscles relax, causing a slower rateof return to the original size of the pillow. Advantageously, thepillow-socket arrangement permits complete compression of the pillowduring muscle contraction. That is, compared to prior art, the volumereduction of the pillow is not blocked by an incompressible element inthe pillow.

Further, as will become evident in the description below and outlinedabove the geometry of the pillow has been established in order toprovide several key benefits. Considering, an adult device with a pillowfor vaginal insertion these benefits include:

-   -   superior positioning within the vagina;    -   increased comfort for the user;    -   improved placement consistency within the vagina, which permits        more accurate measurement of muscle contractions and more        accurate progress measurement;    -   superior sensitivity to the upper portion of the muscles; and    -   the asymmetric shape of the adult device provides a superior fit        to the muscles as it more accurately matches natural muscle        shape.

In addition to the novel shape of the pillow the inventors haveestablished a novel shape of the handle as the adult device may beemployed not only by a user personally but also by medical personnelwithin a clinical environment, doctors surgery etc. Accordingly, thehandle is designed for benefits including:

-   -   providing improved comfort to the patient during insertion and        removal;    -   provides improved comfort to the user when using the device;    -   improving placement control of the adult device for the user;    -   providing improved placement control for a doctor or therapist,        as compared to prior art.

The handle should be large enough for comfort and control, yet lightenough to avoid incorrect or inconsistent measurements. The novel shapeof the handle provides an improvement over prior art.

Referring to FIG. 1 there is depicted a cross-section of an ADult DEVice(ADDEV) according to an embodiment of the invention. The shape of theADDEV, in numerous embodiments, provides novel improvements over theprior art in terms of fit, convenience, and function. Depicted is acurved line representing device plane 110 which runs along the axis ofthe device and is, approximately, in the sagittal plane of the user'sbody when the device is in use, approximately aligned to thesuperior-inferior axis of the user within their vagina. Importantly,device plane 110 is not represented by a straight line, or a simpleradius curve, as employed within devices in the prior art. Within theembodiment depicted, device plane 110 has a smaller radius near thesuperior tip 111 of the device, and a larger radius near the inferiorend, through the handle 117. Tip 111 shows the superior top of thedevice wherein the radius of the tip 111, which is much smaller than theradii of the upper portion 112 and lower portion 121 for the body of thepillow. The radius of the tip 111 may be less than half, less than aquarter, less than an eighth, or less than a tenth the radius of eitherthe surface of the upper portion 112 or lower portion 121. The radius ofthe upper portion 112 defines the upper curve of the pillow which, inthis embodiment of the invention, faces the anterior surface of vagina,in use. Within this embodiment of the invention the radius of the upperportion 112 is a smooth joining curve with the curves of the top 111 andupper neck portion 113, and may not be a uniform radius along itslength, as shown. The average radius for upper surface 112 may be in therange of 25 mm to 500 mm (1″ to 20″), or in the range of 50 mm to 250 mm(2″ to 10″), or in the range of 75 mm to 175 mm (3″ to 7″). The concaveradius of the upper neck portion 113 defines the change from the primarypillow radius defined by the upper portion 112 to create the neck of thepillow, at or near the minimum diameter of the device. This radius maybe in the range of 0 mm to 1000 mm (0″ to 40″), or in the range of 12.5mm to 500 mm (½″ to 20″). Optionally, another portion of the neck at oradjacent to the radius of upper neck portion 113 may be straight.

Still referring to FIG. 1, upper surface 115 defines the upper surfaceof the handle, which may be facing the user's pubic bone, when thedevice is in use, for the embodiment of the invention for vaginalinsertion. This surface may be straight, or have a concave or convexradius larger than 12.5 mm (½″) or larger than 50 mm (2″). This surfacemay in embodiments of the invention be a concave portion of a sphere orellipsoid, surface 61 in FIG. 4, where the recess created by the shapeprovides a place for the thumb of the user when inserting or removingthe device. The radii of the portion of the sphere are larger than 1,500m (60″), or larger than 500 mm (20″), or larger than 250 mm (10″), orlarger than 125 mm (5″), or in the range of 12.5 mm to 250 mm (½″ to10″), or in the range of 25 mm to 125 mm (1″ to 5″). The recess in thisregion, surface 61, may have two separate radii as in an ellipsoid.

Continuing with FIG. 1, transition surface 116 is a curve at the end ofthe handle 117. The radius for this curve may be in the range of 12.5 mmto 250 mm (½″ to 10″). The rear surface of the handle 117 represents theregion furthest from the user and may have a radius for this surface isin the range of 25 mm to infinity (1″ to infinity), or in the range of50 mm to 1,500 mm (2″ to 60″), This surface may be concave or convex andtransitions at the lower end to bottom 118 of the handle 117, whichconnects the bottom 118 of the handle 117 to the lower portion 114 ofthe neck of the ADDEV. The radius for this curve may be in the range of12.5 mm to 500 mm (½″ to 20″). Lower portion 114 is the lower, orposterior neck portion of the device where it mates with the socket.This portion may be straight, or have a concave radius in the range of25 mm to infinity (1″ to infinity). First and second measurement 119Aand 119B depict the distance from the minimum diameter of the device atits neck to the junction between the pillow and the socket and thedistance from the tip 111 to the junction between the pillow and thesocket. The range for this distance can be 0 mm to 150 mm (0″ to 6″), orin the range of 12.5 mm to 75 mm (½″ to 3″).

The concave surface 120 defines the posterior neck, or minimum diameterof the device, wherein this concave surface 120 may have the same rangeas upper neck portion 113, although it may be “smoother” with a largerradius than upper neck portion 113. Lower portion 121 is the posteriormain curve for the pillow and the average radius for this curve may bein the same range as the curve for upper portion 112, although it may belonger due to the asymmetric shape as defined by device plane 110.

Referring further to FIG. 1, embodiments of the invention may be definedby none, one or more of the following relationships:

-   -   tip radius 111 is smaller than the radii of upper portion 112        and lower portion 121;    -   lower portion 121 has larger average radius than upper portion        112;    -   transition surface 116 and bottom 118 have smaller radii than        the transitionary surface joining them at the rear of the handle        117; and    -   transition surface 116 and bottom 118 have smaller radii than        upper surface 115 and lower portion 114.

Continuing further with FIG. 1, the angle of upper surface 15 withrespect to the device plane 110, may be within the range 0° to 90°counterclockwise; or in the range 15° to 75°; or in the range 25° to60°; or in the range of 30° to 50°. The angle of rear surface of handle117, with respect to device plane 110, may be within the range of 0° to90° counterclockwise; or in the range 15° to 75°; or in the range 30° to70°; or in the range of 40° to 60°. Further first and second surfaces122A and 122B are curved surfaces formed roughly in the plane of thedrawing. First surface 22A is cut-away in FIG. 1, and not shown. Secondsurface 122B shows the rear side of the surface. Surfaces 22A and 22Bare both concave, and are surrounded generally by upper surface 115,transition surface 116, handle 117, bottom 118 and the bulb. Within someembodiments of the invention FIG. 1 is to scale whilst in otherembodiments of the invention it is not to scale.

FIG. 2 shows some of the major elements of the device, according to anembodiment of the invention. As depicted there is a tip 131 of thedevice whilst anterior wall 132 and posterior wall 144 form the pillowwith hollow space 143 within it. A recessed key 134 in the pillow mateswith the socket key. The pillow mates with socket 136 at pillow-socketjoint 135. Within this are battery 137 which fits within the hollowportion 138 the handle, or socket 136. A pressure sensor 140 is mountedto a PCB 139 which contains the internal electronics for the ADDEV. Alsoindicated are end 141 end of the airway 142 at the pressure sensor 140.Neck 133 of the pillow fits around and is seated upon the 142. Withinsome embodiments of the invention FIG. 2 is to scale whilst in otherembodiments of the invention it is not to scale.

Now referring to FIG. 3 there is depicted an embodiment of the inventionwith a sensor 151 deployed in the surface of the pillow connected to thePCB via connector 153 and cable 152. Accordingly, one or more sensorsmay be deployed in the surface of the pillow and coupled to the PCBand/or a second PCB via cables. Subsequently, in respect of FIGS. 12 to14B other embodiments of the invention are depicted with sensors whichare described below wherein their cabling/connectivity may be within thebody of the pillow rather than through the hollow chamber(s) within thepillow. For example, FIGS. 12 to 14B may employ a flexible scaffold towhich the electrical interconnections and sensors are attached prior tothe silicone casing of the ADDEV being formed.

Referring to FIG. 4 there is depicted an exploded three dimensional (3D)“blown-out” assembly depicted a method of manufacturing an ADDEVaccording to an embodiment of the invention. Accordingly, there aredepicted:

-   -   PCB 161 which is the internal electronics for interfacing to the        pressure sensor(s) and/or other sensor(s) wherein in some        embodiments of the invention the PCB also includes a wireless        antenna such as a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) antenna;    -   Battery 164 or battery module which may, for example, be sealed        within the ADDEV without external connections such that the        ADDEV is disposed of once the battery is drained or        alternatively there may be an external connection for an        electrical power supply to recharge a rechargeable battery 164        or rechargeable battery module;    -   Pillow 63 is a cut-away cross-section of what would typically be        molded as a single piece part although it may in other        embodiments of the invention be formed from two portions;    -   Anterior portion 162 of a shell (scaffold) forming the part of        the socket (handle) which together with posterior portion 165        forms the rear held portion of the ADDEV; and    -   Posterior portion 165 of a shell (scaffold) forming the part of        the socket (handle) which together with anterior portion 162        forms the rear held portion of the ADDEV.

Accordingly, the ADDEV may be assembled by placing the PCB 161 andbattery 164 within the posterior and anterior portions 162 and 165 whichare attached to one another, for example by virtue of being screwedtogether, glued together, or joined via snap-fit fixturing for example.Then the pillow 163 is attached to the resulting socket. Optionally, anADDEV may be sold with multiple pillows of the same geometry such thatthese may be replaced periodically or these may be of different physicaldimensions such that the user can select the one that gives them thebest fit/comfort and provides appropriate monitoring of the activity oftheir muscles, e.g. vaginal muscles. Optionally, a vaginal pillow and ananal pillow may be provided allowing a user to perform exercises andmonitor muscle activity/progress for both.

Now referring to FIG. 5 there is depicted a 3D rendering of anembodiment of the invention wherein the asymmetrical shape is evidentboth spherically and rotationally. The inventors notes that area 122A isan elliptical recess, placed conveniently for the thumb, or thumb andindex finger of the user as depicted in FIGS. 6A and 6B respectively. Asecond area 122B is disposed on the other side of the socket and it isevident that the width and height (along and perpendicular to the deviceplane 110 are larger than the thickness (posterior to anteriordistance). This width to thickness ratio is an improvement over priorart in that it permits the user to easily rotationally adjust the ADDEVonce inserted. The firm thumb and fingers grip of the handle not onlymatches a natural orientation of the hand for placement of the device,but also provides easy and firm adjustment of the depth and orientationof the device. Also depicted ate the rear of the handle 117 and theupper surface 115.

Referring to FIG. 6A there is depicted a typical user grip, with thethumb and index finger grasping the device using upper surface 15 andhandle 117, respectively. Referring to FIG. 6B there is depicted whatthe inventors refer to as a typical physician grip, or that of anotheruser, with the thumb and index finger grasping the device using concavesurfaces 122A and 122B.

According to embodiments of the invention there is a narrowing of theneck where the pillow and socket mate which provides for improvedcomfort and more effective measurements of contractions when a userperforms muscle exercises with the ADDEV inserted. Within the prior art,the minimum, average, or maximum compression in this region are toosmall, either due to a large diameter in this region for designs such asKegel balls etc. which are typically spherical or ellipsoid in geometry.The diameter according to embodiments of the invention measured fromupper neck portion 113 to concave surface 120 (see FIG. 1) may be less90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, or 30% of the diameter of thedevice measured at the largest diameter of the pillow.

Now referring to FIG. 7 there are depicted first and secondcross-sections A-A and B-B respectively of the socket portion of anADDEV according to an embodiments of the invention. As noted supra thereare elliptical recesses 122A/122B on the posterior/anterior portions ofthe socket adapted to a thumb and to one or two opposing fingers. Oneside of this elliptical recess is shown as 191. Note that the depth andradius of the two cross-sections A-A and B-B of this recess, shown ascross-sectional views 193 and 192 respectively, are distinctlydifferent. The recess, two opposing recesses, and the elliptical shapeof the recess are associated with many embodiments of the invention. Therecesses and radii may be as shown in this FIG. 9, or be within therange pictured larger or smaller by plus or minus 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%,30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 75%, or 90%, as percentages of the size of thesocket. Note that the labeling of these cross sections is not consistentwith labeling on other Figures.

It would also be evident that the center of the grip portion of thesocket, shown as the recess 191, is close to the primary axis of thedevice, shown here and in FIG. 1 as device plane 110. The center of thegrip recess of the handle may be within 5 mm, 10 mm, 12.5 mm, 20 mm, 25mm, 38 mm, 50 mm, or 75 mm (0.2″, 0.5″, 0.8″, 1″, 1.5″, 2″, or 3″) ofthis axis, device plane 110, or larger. As noted supra an inventiveaspect of ADDEVs according to embodiments of the invention is theirasymmetry. Looking towards the tip of an ADDEV according to anembodiment of the invention then the left-right width and shape aredistinct compared with the posterior-anterior width and shape. Inparticular the former is wider than the latter, as measured at thewidest portions of the bulb on each axis. Referring now to FIG. 15 thisasymmetry is depicted for an ADDEV according to an embodiment of theinvention through three different cross-sections of the pillow, X-X, Y-Yand Z-Z. Note that the labeling of these cross sections is notconsistent with labeling on other Figures.

Within another embodiment of the invention for an ADDEV thecross-section width in the lateral plane may be at least 1.3 times thecross-section width in the ventral-dorsal plane, or the sagittal plane,at cross-sections X-X and Y-Y. Within another embodiment of theinvention, at the Y-Y cross section the difference-ratio between thewidest and narrowest width at that cross section may be at least 1.05,1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.5, 1.7, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, or 4.0.

Now referring to FIG. 9 there is depicted an ADDEV in side view andcross-sectional side-view 900A and 900B respectively. As evident fromside view 900A the pillow 930 and socket 920 are augmented with aclitoral portion 910. As depicted in cross-sectional view 900B thepillow 930 comprises a single air chamber 950 coupled to a pressuresensor 960 which is connected to a battery 980 and control circuit 970.The battery 980 being coupled to a power socket 990 allowing the battery980 to be recharged. Optionally, rather than employing a wirelessinterface the ADDEV may employ a wired data connection routed throughpower/data socket 990 such as a micro-USB or Apple™ Lightning forexample. Also connected to the controller is vibrating element 940.Accordingly, the ADDEV depicted in FIG. 9 may be employed as a vaginalmuscle exercise device wherein completion of a predetermined trainingschedule or activity results in the activation of the vibratory functionfor the user's clitoris. Alternatively, the vibratory function of thevibrating element 940 may be activated in response to each muscleflexure or action performed by the user so that the more they exercisewithin a given session the longer the vibratory element 940 providesstimulation to the user's clitoris.

Now referring to FIG. 10 there is depicted an ADDEV in side view 1000Atogether with first and second cross-sectional side-views 1000B and1000C respectively. As evident from side view 1000A the vaginal pillow1010 and socket are now augmented with anal pillow 1015 and a largersocket 1020 encompassing two grip regions. As depicted in firstcross-sectional view 1000B the vaginal pillow comprises a single airchamber 1030 coupled to a pressure sensor 1040 which is connected to abattery 1080 and control circuit 1050. The battery 1080 being coupled toa power socket 1090 allowing the battery 1080 to be recharged.Optionally, rather than employing a wireless interface the ADDEV mayemploy a wired data connection routed through a power/data socket 1090such as a micro-USB or Apple™ Lightning for example. The controller 1050is also coupled to a second circuit 1060 which provides control andpower to vibratory element 1070 within the anal portion 1015.Accordingly, the ADDEV depicted in

FIG. 10 in first cross-section 1000B may be employed as a vaginal muscleexercise device wherein completion of a predetermined training scheduleor activity results in the activation of the vibratory function for theuser's anus. Alternatively, the vibratory function of the vibratingelement 1070 may be activated in response to each muscle flexure oraction performed by the user so that the more they exercise within agiven session the longer the vibratory element 1070 provides stimulationto the user's anus.

As depicted in second cross-sectional view 1000C the vaginal pillowcomprises a first air chamber 1035A coupled to a first pressure sensor1045A which is connected to the battery and control circuit as discussedsupra in respect of first cross-section 1000B. However, in thisembodiment of the invention the control circuit is also coupled tosecond pressure sensor 1045B which is coupled to the second air chamber1035B within the anal pillow 1015. Accordingly, the ADDEV allows a userto perform vaginal and anal muscle training/exercises with a singledevice. Within embodiments of the invention the vaginal and anal pillows1010 and 1015 may be the same, similarly or dimensioned differently.Wherein they are dimensioned similarly or the same then through the useof an accelerometer circuit within the ADDEV to determine orientation itis feasible for the user to employ an ADDEV such as depicted in secondcross-section 1000C in either orientation leading to the socket havingdual grip elements that are the mirror image of each other.

Optionally, within another embodiment of the invention the anal pillowmay be coupled not only to a pressure sensor but also a fan and partialnon-return valve such that the anal pillow can be partially inflated,for example, in response to correct vaginal muscle exercises. Theinventors define the term “partial non-return valve” as once the fanstops blowing then the anal pillow 1015 will deflate slowly allowing itsremoval once it has returned to or close to its original dimensions.Optionally, the non-return valve may be electronically controlled inother embodiments of the invention in conjunction with a mechanicalpump. Alternatively, the anal pillow 1015 may be part of aself-contained fluidic actuation and control system within the ADDEVsuch that a reservoir within the socket provides fluid to inflateelements within the anal pillow or the anal pillow directly.

Now referring to FIG. 11 there is depicted an ADDEV in side view 1100Atogether with cross-sectional side-view 1100B respectively. As evidentfrom side view 1100A the vaginal pillow 1120 and socket are nowaugmented with anal pillow 1125, clitoral portion 1110 and a largersocket 1130 encompassing two grip regions. As depicted in firstcross-sectional view 1100B the vaginal pillow comprises a single airchamber 1160 coupled to a pressure sensor integrated with first circuit1150 which is connected to a battery 1190 and control circuit 1180. Thebattery 1190 being coupled to a power socket 1195 allowing the battery1190 to be recharged. Optionally, rather than employing a wirelessinterface the ADDEV may employ a wired data connection routed through apower/data socket 1190 such as a micro-USB or Apple™ Lightning forexample. The controller 1180 is also coupled to a second circuit 1150which controls a first vibrating element 1170 and to a second vibratingelement 1140 within the clitoral portion 1140 via the first circuit1150. Accordingly, it is evident as described supra that thefunctionality of the first vibrating element 1170 and second vibratingelement 1140 may be established in dependence upon a mode of the ADDEV,e.g. sex toy or muscle exerciser, and that within a selected mode thecharacteristics of the first and second vibrating elements 1140 and 1170may be adjusted in dependence upon a variety of factors including, butnot limited, user input, user progress, clinical or personal use, etc.Further, as discussed below the first and second vibrating elements 1140and 1170 may be adjusted in dependence upon direct measurements of theuser such as sexual arousal, sexual wellness etc.

Optionally, the ADDEVs depicted in FIGS. 9 to 11A may be augmentedfurther by making the pillow to socket connection demountable such thatthe user can replace, for example, a vaginal exerciser pillow with a 150mm (6″) Gräfenberg spot (G-spot) vibrator or the anal exerciser pillowcan be replaced with a 75 mm long by 50 mm diameter butt plug. Such areconfigurable ADDEV is depicted within FIG. 11B wherein mountable tothe socket 1100C are:

-   -   straight dildo/vibrator element 1100D;    -   curved G-spot dildo/vibrator element 1100E;    -   “large” pillow 1100F;    -   “small” pillow 1100G;    -   “thin long” pillow 1100H; and    -   butt plug 1100I.

It was briefly discussed supra in respect of FIG. 3 that additionalsensors may be integrated with an ADDEV according to an embodiment ofthe invention. Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14A there are depicted examplesof additional sensors relating to sexual wellness and/or sexual arousaldetermination. Accordingly referring to FIG. 12 with first and secondcross-sections 1200A and 1200B respectively there are depicteddeployment scenarios in respect of labial thermistors wherein increasedblood flow to the labia results in an increase in the temperature of thelabia which via the temperature dependent resistance of the thermistorscan be monitored. Accordingly, in first cross-section 1200A first andsecond labial thermistors 1210 and 1220 are disposed within the regionof the pillow—socket coupling for a discrete pillow device whereas insecond cross-section 1200B third and fourth labial thermistors 1230 and1240 are depicted within a device such as those depicted within FIGS. 9and 11A respectively wherein labial thermistor 1230 is extended aroundthe surface of the ADDEV for improved coupling the upper pelvic regionbetween their clitoris and vagina. Fourth labial thermistor 1240 isdepicted on the lower edge of the user's vaginal opening. Optionally,the thermistors may be disposed on the sides of the ADDEV elementsrather than the surfaces directly in engagement with the user's body.Accordingly, as the user uses their ADDEV for sexual stimulation and/orvaginal exercises their labial temperature can be monitored for anindication of sexual arousal allowing adjustment of control programparameters, control settings, feedback from vaginal exercise etc.Optionally, extended monitoring of the user's labial temperaturediscretely or in conjunction with other biometric data may allowautomatic determination of the user's menstrual cycle and subsequentprojections as to the user's menstrual cycle from recent temperaturetrend data correlated to historical data. Optionally, the user may enterdata to align the acquired data with their menstrual cycle. Optionally,within other embodiments of the invention the thermistor may be replacedby another element with an electrical characteristic that is temperaturedependent such as resistance, inductance, or capacitance for example.

Now referring to FIG. 13 there are depicted with first and secondcross-sections 1300A and 1300B respectively there are depicteddeployment scenarios in respect of optical sensor elements fordetermining, for example, labial and vaginal blood flow usingphotoplethysmography (PPG) and/or laser Doppler imaging (LDI).Accordingly, in first cross-section 1200A first to third Optical Sourceand Detector (OSAD) pairs 1310 to 1330 are depicted disposed within thepillow of a discrete pillow device. As depicted first OSAD pair 1310 istowards the upper vaginal opening on the pillow—socket region of theADDEV, second OSAD pair 1320 towards the cervix at the tip of the pillowand third OSAD pair 1330 on the lower vaginal wall within the pillow. Insecond cross-section 1300B fourth and fifth OSAD pairs 1340 and 1350 aredepicted within a device such as those depicted within FIGS. 9 and 11Arespectively wherein the fourth and fifth OSAD pairs 1340 and 1350 arewithin the extended socket surface of the ADDEV for improved couplingthe upper pelvic region between their clitoris and vagina and lowerpelvic region between vagina and anus. Within PPG exploiting areflective mode as depicted the volume of blood is determined independence upon the intensity of the reflected whilst each cardiac cycleappears as a peak within the reflected signal. As blood flow to the skincan be modulated by multiple other physiological systems, PPG can alsobe used to monitor breathing (respiration), medication effects,hypovolemia, and other circulatory conditions, especially where extendedmonitoring under a variety of conditions including rest and/or sleepprovide enhanced baseline and/or early data. For example, the height ofAC component of the PPG is proportional to the pulse pressure, thedifference between the systolic and diastolic pressure in the arteries.Additionally, the shape of the PPG waveform differs from subject tosubject, and varies with the location, providing additional options suchas identification of user through PPG data and automatic adjustment ofthe ADDEV parameters/control program etc. in response therefrom.

Alternatively, the OSAD pair may be employed for laser Doppler imaging(LDI) wherein the OSAD is typically an infrared laser source inconjunction with a photodetector rather than a visible LED andphotodetector in the instance of PPG. Accordingly, the pulsed laserlight interacts with moving blood cells such that a small portion of itis reflected with a frequency shift, detected, and converted into anelectrical signal. LDI can provide a direct measure of female sexualresponse in that it does not require physical contact and the signalsare typically acquired at depth of 2-3 mm (approx. ⅛″) below the skinsurface. It would be evident that one, two or more OSAD pairs may beemployed and that their position may vary according to the design of theADDEV and/or pillow including, for example, laterally disposed on theADDEV or disposed in respect of the clitoris, etc.

Now referring to FIG. 14A there is depicted a pillow for an ADDEVaccording to an embodiment of the invention wherein multiple electricalcontacts are disposed. As depicted there are first to third contactpairs 1410/1440; 1420/1430; and 1450/1460 of electrical contacts (ELCOs)connected to circuit 1480. It would be evident that one, two or moreELCO pairs may be employed and that their position may vary according tothe design of the ADDEV and/or pillow including, for example, laterallydisposed on the ADDEV or disposed in respect of the clitoris, etc.Equally, an array of ELCOs may be employed as well as a discrete ELCOand/or spatially separated ELCO pair(s). An ELCO may be employed tomeasure electrical activity and/or provide electrical stimulation to theuser's vagina/anus/clitoris according to the design of the ADDEV andtheir disposition on the ADDEV. Accordingly, the device may provideelectrostimulation of the vaginal muscles with part of anexercise/training regime and then determine from user flexing the musclestrength/range of motion etc.

Within an alternate embodiment of the invention one or more of the ELCOelements may be replaced with a microphone such as one based uponcapacitive thin film or microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)transducer, a piezoelectric transducer, accelerometer, hydrophone, oranother type of microphone in order to measure the acoustic output of acontracting muscle. Accordingly, based upon such microphone placement anADDEV according to an embodiment of the invention may support acousticmyography (AMG) of the pubococcygeus muscle and/or other of the pelvicfloor muscles. Beneficially, the pillow geometry enhances/assurescontact of one or more microphone to an inner surface of the vagina orthe cervix. Typically, AMG has a frequency range of interest that isprimarily 5-50 Hz, although there is value beyond this range whichbeneficially are captured by the microphone sensor, particularly, in theupper portion of this frequency range, whilst the pressure sensordetects a lower portion of the frequency range. Within other embodimentsof the invention the microphone may be reversed to function as aloudspeaker or a dedicated loudspeaker element may be provided such thatthe ADDEV provides acoustic stimulation directly such as that derivedfrom music, video, broadcast television, multimedia etc.

Within the embodiments of the invention described and depicted inrespect of FIGS. 1 to 14A the pillow has been depicted with a singlechamber. However, it would be evident that the chamber may in otherembodiments of the invention be partitioned through flexible and/orinflexible membranes. An example of such a multi-chamber pillow isdepicted in FIG. 14B wherein the pillow 1490 is divided into fourchambers 1470A to 1470D which are depicted as upper rear/upperfront/lower rear and lower front respectively. However, within otherembodiments of the invention the chambers may be “radially” positionedsuch as quadrants of the length of the pillow or simply upper/lower ofupper/lower/tip etc.

Within the descriptions supra in respect of FIGS. 1 to 14B ADDEVsaccording to embodiments of the invention have been described withrespect to providing simulation and assessment of a user's vagina and/oranus and/or clitoris. Electrical control and monitoring have beendescribed together with wired and wireless data connectivity of theADDEV to the external world. Accordingly, the ADDEV may be wirelesslyconnected to a user's PED or FED such as depicted in FIG. 16 andaccess/post content/data to one or more local and/or remote serversassociated with different aspects of the user including, but not limitedto, their personal ADDEV profile, personal health records, otherPEDs/FEDs/wearables, physician's office, etc. Accordingly, the networkinterconnectivity and structure of a network supporting ADDEVs accordingto embodiments of the invention are described in respect of FIG. 15whilst the local device structure, PED/access point (AP) association andnetwork connectivity are described and depicted in respect of FIG. 16.

Referring to FIG. 15 there is depicted a network environment 1500 withinwhich embodiments of the invention may be employed supporting ADDEVsystems, applications, and platforms (ADSAPs) according to embodimentsof the invention. Such ADSAPs, for example supporting multiple channelsand dynamic content. As shown first and second user groups 1500A and1500B respectively interface to a telecommunications network 1500.Within the representative telecommunication architecture a remotecentral exchange 1580 communicates with the remainder of atelecommunication service providers network via the network 1500 whichmay include for example long-haul OC-48/OC-192 backbone elements, anOC-48 wide area network (WAN), a Passive Optical Network, and a WirelessLink. The central exchange 1580 is connected via the network 1500 tolocal, regional, and international exchanges (not shown for clarity) andtherein through network 1500 to first and second cellular APs 1595A and1595B respectively which provide Wi-Fi cells for first and second usergroups 1500A and 1500B respectively. Also connected to the network 1500are first and second Wi-Fi nodes 1510A and 1510B, the latter of whichbeing coupled to network 1500 via router 1505. Second Wi-Fi node 1510Bis associated with Enterprise 1560, such as Adam & Eve™ for example,within which other first and second user groups 1500A and 1500B aredisposed. Second user group 1500B may also be connected to the network1500 via wired interfaces including, but not limited to, DSL, Dial-Up,DOCSIS, Ethernet, G.hn, ISDN, MoCA, PON, and Power line communication(PLC) which may or may not be routed through a router such as router1505.

Within the cell associated with first AP 1510A the first group of users1500A may employ a variety of PEDs including for example, laptopcomputer 1555, portable gaming console 1535, tablet computer 1540,smartphone 1550, cellular telephone 1545 as well as portable multimediaplayer 1530. Within the cell associated with second AP 1510B are thesecond group of users 1500B which may employ a variety of FEDs includingfor example gaming console 1525, personal computer 1515 andwireless/Internet enabled television 1520 as well as cable modem 1505.First and second cellular APs 1595A and 1595B respectively provide, forexample, cellular GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications)telephony services as well as 3G and 4G evolved services with enhanceddata transport support. Second cellular AP 1595B provides coverage inthe exemplary embodiment to first and second user groups 1500A and1500B. Alternatively the first and second user groups 1500A and 1500Bmay be geographically disparate and access the network 1500 throughmultiple APs, not shown for clarity, distributed geographically by thenetwork operator or operators. First cellular AP 1595A as show providescoverage to first user group 1500A and environment 1570, which comprisessecond user group 1500B as well as first user group 1500A. Accordingly,the first and second user groups 1500A and 1500B may according to theirparticular communications interfaces communicate to the network 1500through one or more wireless communications standards such as, forexample, IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.15, IEEE 802.16, IEEE 802.20, UMTS, GSM850, GSM 900, GSM 1800, GSM 1900, GPRS, ITU-R 5.138, ITU-R 5.150, ITU-R5.280, and IMT-1000. It would be evident to one skilled in the art thatmany portable and fixed electronic devices may support multiple wirelessprotocols simultaneously, such that for example a user may employ GSMservices such as telephony and SMS and Wi-Fi/WiMAX data transmission,VOIP and Internet access. Accordingly portable electronic devices withinfirst user group 1500A may form associations either through standardssuch as IEEE 802.15 and Bluetooth as well in an ad-hoc manner.

Also connected to the network 1500 are Social Networks (SOCNETS) 1565,ADDEV manufacturer 1570A, e.g. We-Vibe™ by Standard InnovationCorporation; online retailer 1570B, e.g. Amazon™; online personalswebsite 1570C, e.g. PinkCupid™; online chat/discussion/bulletinboard/forum 1570D, e.g. www.sexforums.com; adult multimedia contentwebsite 1575A, e.g. RedTube™; and multimedia content website 1575B, e.g.iTunes™; as well as first and second servers 1590A and 1590B whichtogether with others, not shown for clarity. Accordingly, a useremploying one or more ADSAPs may interact with one or more suchproviders, enterprises, service providers, retailers, third parties etc.and other users. First and second servers 1590A and 1590B may hostaccording to embodiments of the inventions multiple services associatedwith a provider of ADDEV systems, applications, and platforms (ADSAPs);a provider of a SOCNET or Social Media (SOME) exploiting ADSAP features;a provider of a SOCNET and/or SOME not exploiting ADSAP features; aprovider of services to PEDS and/or FEDS; a provider of one or moreaspects of wired and/or wireless communications; an Enterprise 1560exploiting ADSAP features; license databases; content databases; imagedatabases; content libraries; customer databases; websites; and softwareapplications for download to or access by FEDs and/or PEDs exploitingand/or hosting ADSAP features. First and second primary content servers1590A and 1590B may also host for example other Internet services suchas a search engine, financial services, third party applications andother Internet based services.

Accordingly, a user may exploit a PED and/or FED within an Enterprise1560, for example, and access one of the first or second primary contentservers 1590A and 1590B respectively to perform an operation such asaccessing/downloading an application which provides ADSAP featuresaccording to embodiments of the invention; execute an applicationalready installed providing ADSAP features; execute a web basedapplication providing ADSAP features; or access content. Similarly, auser may undertake such actions or others exploiting embodiments of theinvention exploiting a PED or FED within first and second user groups1500A and 1500B respectively via one of first and second cellular APs1595A and 1595B respectively and first Wi-Fi nodes 1510A.

Now referring to FIG. 16 there is depicted an electronic device 1604 andnetwork access point 1607 supporting ADSAP features according toembodiments of the invention. Electronic device 1604 may, for example,be a PED and/or FED and may include additional elements above and beyondthose described and depicted. Also depicted within the electronic device1604 is the protocol architecture as part of a simplified functionaldiagram of a system 1600 that includes an electronic device 1604, suchas a smartphone 1555, an access point (AP) 1606, such as first AP 1510,and one or more network devices 1607, such as communication servers,streaming media servers, and routers for example such as first andsecond servers 1590A and 1590B respectively. Network devices 1607 may becoupled to AP 1606 via any combination of networks, wired, wirelessand/or optical communication links such as discussed above in respect ofFIG. 15 as well as directly as indicated. Network devices 1607 arecoupled to network 1500 and therein Social Networks (SOCNETS) 1565,ADDEV manufacturer 1570A, e.g. We-Vibe™ by Standard InnovationCorporation; online retailer 1570B, e.g. Amazon™; online personalswebsite 1570C, e.g. PinkCupid™; online chat/discussion/bulletinboard/forum 1570D, e.g. www.sexforums.com; adult multimedia contentwebsite 1575A, e.g. RedTube™; and multimedia content website 1575B, e.g.iTunes™.

The electronic device 1604 includes one or more processors 1610 and amemory 1612 coupled to processor(s) 1610. AP 1606 also includes one ormore processors 1611 and a memory 1613 coupled to processor(s) 1610. Anon-exhaustive list of examples for any of processors 1610 and 1611includes a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor(DSP), a reduced instruction set computer (RISC), a complex instructionset computer (CISC) and the like. Furthermore, any of processors 1610and 1611 may be part of application specific integrated circuits (ASICs)or may be a part of application specific standard products (ASSPs). Anon-exhaustive list of examples for memories 1612 and 1613 includes anycombination of the following semiconductor devices such as registers,latches, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory devices, non-volatile random accessmemory devices (NVRAM), SDRAM, DRAM, double data rate (DDR) memorydevices, SRAM, universal serial bus (USB) removable memory, and thelike.

Electronic device 1604 may include an audio input element 1614, forexample a microphone, and an audio output element 1616, for example, aspeaker, coupled to any of processors 1610. Electronic device 1604 mayinclude a video input element 1618, for example, a video camera orcamera, and a video output element 1620, for example an LCD display,coupled to any of processors 1610. Electronic device 1604 also includesa keyboard 1615 and touchpad 1617 which may for example be a physicalkeyboard and touchpad allowing the user to enter content or selectfunctions within one of more applications 1622. Alternatively thekeyboard 1615 and touchpad 1617 may be predetermined regions of a touchsensitive element forming part of the display within the electronicdevice 1604. The one or more applications 1622 that are typically storedin memory 1612 and are executable by any combination of processors 1610.Electronic device 1604 also includes accelerometer 1660 providingthree-dimensional motion input to the process 1610 and GPS 1662 whichprovides geographical location information to processor 1610.

Electronic device 1604 includes a protocol stack 1624 and AP 1606includes a communication stack 1625. Within system 1600 protocol stack1624 is shown as IEEE 802.11 protocol stack but alternatively mayexploit other protocol stacks such as an Internet Engineering Task Force(IETF) multimedia protocol stack for example. Likewise AP stack 1625exploits a protocol stack but is not expanded for clarity. Elements ofprotocol stack 1624 and AP stack 1625 may be implemented in anycombination of software, firmware and/or hardware. Protocol stack 1624includes an IEEE 802.11-compatible PHY module 1626 that is coupled toone or more Tx/Rx & Antenna Circuits 1628, an IEEE 802.11-compatible MACmodule 1630 coupled to an IEEE 802.2-compatible LLC module 1632.Protocol stack 1624 includes a network layer IP module 1634, a transportlayer User Datagram Protocol (UDP) module 1636 and a transport layerTransmission Control Protocol (TCP) module 1638. Protocol stack 1624also includes a session layer Real Time Transport Protocol (RTP) module1640, a Session Announcement Protocol (SAP) module 1642, a SessionInitiation Protocol (SIP) module 1644 and a Real Time Streaming Protocol(RTSP) module 1646. Protocol stack 1624 includes a presentation layermedia negotiation module 1648, a call control module 1650, one or moreaudio codecs 1652 and one or more video codecs 1654. Applications 1622may be able to create maintain and/or terminate communication sessionswith any of devices 1607 by way of AP 1606.

Typically, applications 1622 may activate any of the SAP, SIP, RTSP,media negotiation and call control modules for that purpose. Typically,information may propagate from the SAP, SIP, RTSP, media negotiation andcall control modules to PHY module 1626 through TCP module 1638, IPmodule 1634, LLC module 1632 and MAC module 1630. It would be apparentto one skilled in the art that elements of the electronic device 1604may also be implemented within the AP 1606 including but not limited toone or more elements of the protocol stack 1624, including for examplean IEEE 802.11-compatible PHY module, an IEEE 802.11-compatible MACmodule, and an IEEE 802.2-compatible LLC module 1632. The AP 1606 mayadditionally include a network layer IP module, a transport layer UserDatagram Protocol (UDP) module and a transport layer TransmissionControl Protocol (TCP) module as well as a session layer Real TimeTransport Protocol (RTP) module, a Session Announcement Protocol (SAP)module, a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) module and a Real TimeStreaming Protocol (RTSP) module, media negotiation module, and a callcontrol module. Portable and fixed electronic devices represented byelectronic device 1604 may include one or more additional wireless orwired interfaces in addition to the depicted IEEE 802.11 interface whichmay be selected from the group comprising IEEE 802.15, IEEE 802.16, IEEE802.20, UMTS, GSM 850, GSM 900, GSM 1800, GSM 1900, GPRS, ITU-R 5.138,ITU-R 5.150, ITU-R 5.280, IMT-1000, DSL, Dial-Up, DOCSIS, Ethernet,G.hn, ISDN, MoCA, PON, and Power line communication (PLC).

Also depicted is ADult DEVice (ADDEV) 1670 which is coupled to theelectronic device 1604 through a wireless interface between Antenna 1672and Tx/Rx & Antenna Circuits 1628 wherein the electronic device 1604 maysupport, for example, a national wireless standard such as GSM togetherwith one or more local and/or personal area wireless protocols such asIEEE 802.11 a/b/g WiFi, IEEE 802.16 WiMAX, and IEEE 802.15 Bluetooth forexample. The Antenna 1672 is connected to Processor 1674 and therein toMemory 1676, Drivers 1678, and Features 1680. Accordingly, the ADDEV1670 may operate as standalone device with factory installed controlroutines accessed through an interface on the ADDEV 1670, not shown forclarity, or through an application in execution upon the electronicdevice 1604. Subsequently, as described below one or more of thesecontrol routines may be modified, amended, deleted etc. whilst other newcontrol routines may be created, acquired, installed etc.

Accordingly it would be evident to one skilled the art that the ADDEV1670 with associated electronic device 1604 may accordingly downloadoriginal software and/or revisions for a variety of functions supportedby the drivers 1678 and/or features 1680. In some embodiments of theinvention the functions may not be implemented within the original assold ADDEV 1670 and are only activated through a software/firmwarerevision and/or upgrade either discretely or in combination with asubscription or subscription upgrade for example.

Within the process of determining pelvic floor muscle pressuremeasurements the user's body position has two impacts. First, theneutral, or relaxed, pressure in the device varies by body position.Second, the maximum pressure for a given muscle strength also varies bybody position. Thus, accurate measurements and consistent tracking ofperformance improvement requires either knowing the user's bodyposition, or requires that the user perform all exercises in the samebody position. Determining body position is beneficial and may beestablished through the employment of an accelerometer or accelerometerswithin the ADDEV.

In other embodiment, the accelerometer may be used to determine improperexercise technique, such as the use of incorrect muscles, or additionalmuscles, or a wrong position of the device or the user. In anotherembodiment, the accelerometer is used to determine pelvic lift withcontractions which where automatically determined represents anadvancement over the prior art. Within embodiments of the invention arepresentation of the user's body position may be provided to a FED/PEDtogether with a target body position allowing the user to achieve therequired posture/position for the exercise. These depictions of user andtarget positions may adjust in real time. Similarly, the user may bepresented via a PED/FED with a depiction of the user's pelvic floor liftwhich again may be tracked/monitored/displayed in real time.

In other embodiments, an accelerometer may be used to detect and monitorexercises other than pelvic floor muscle exercises (commonly referred toas Kegel exercises or Kegels), such as leg lifts, hip raises, crunches,oblique crunches, adductor contractions, other core exercises, and otherexercises.

Within embodiments of the invention the ADDEV contains one or moresensors including, but not limited to, accelerometer, thermometer, LDI,PPG, and a microphone. This or these may be employed to determine heartrate, menstrual cycle, amount of exercise, changes in physical activitylevel during an exercise session. Optionally, additional sensors such asa humidity sensor may be incorporated into the device or additionalbiometric data may be acquired through an aggregator ADSAP such as theuser's smart phone for example communicating with the ADDEV and one ormore wearable devices. Accordingly, the ADSAP and/or ADDEV can establishwhether the user is performing activities such as showering when usingthe ADDEV as well as detecting cleaning, with the option of poweringdown the ADDEV in either instance.

In some embodiments of the invention, various detections,determinations, tracking and storage of aspects and parameters, asdiscussed herein, are executed wholly or partially internally in theADDEV; in other embodiments they are executed wholly or partially in awirelessly connected standard user interface running software as part ofthis embodiment; in yet another embodiment they are executed whole orpartially by software running remotely upon remote servers or “in thecloud” as colloquially known. In other embodiments the user may beprompted through such a wirelessly connected standard user interface toperform one or more specific actions in isolation and/or in combinationwith a view to improving or mitigating an aspect of the user'sphysiological and/or sexual wellness.

In some embodiments of the invention, current exercise parameters andthe user's performance/progress are sent to a doctor, trainer ortherapist in real-time and/or periodically. In some embodiments of theinvention the doctor, trainer or therapist may concurrently within acommunication link, such as a phone call, in the reverse directionprovide human, personalized instruction, communication, status, ormotivation to the user.

In some embodiments of the invention, current exercise parameters aresent to software in the cloud in real-time; while concurrently acommunication link, such as a phone call or browser-based data, in thereverse direction from the cloud software to the user, providesautomated, personalized instruction, communication, status, ormotivation to the user. Such information from the cloud to the user mayinclude information about the status or progress of other users.Alternatively, based upon the users historical data and their currentperformance/activity a remote automated analysis and control applicationmay adjust settings within an ADSAP directing the user to performspecific actions and/or exercise and/or direct the user to perform adifferent exercise regime. Optionally, the user's progress with respectto vaginal muscle control etc. may be correlated with other sexualactivity data derived from one or more ADDEVs and/or user'sfeedback/social media/etc.

In one embodiment, a “pairing code” may be used to enable wirelesspairing or a communication link. This paring code may be used for setup,such as with Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), or may function asa password for regular or repetitive connectivity. Such a pairing codemay comprise a tap sequence, shake sequence, squeeze sequence,orientation of the device, or any combination. Note that any suchsqueezing may be done by the user's hand, prior to insertion, or by theuser's pelvic floor muscles after insertion. Such a pairing code may beused to insure privacy of the user's data. Such protected data may be inthe device, in a user interface device, in the cloud, or in anycombination. In some embodiments of the invention the user's interfacedevice displays a “challenge”, a sequence of actions, such as taps,shacks or orientation, which the user must then perform as a “response”with the device, to enable pairing or the enabling of some applicationfunctionality.

Within some embodiments of the invention, simply using the deviceintra-vaginally/intra-anally turns the device on from a sleep mode andlaunches a corresponding ADSAP on the user's interface device, e.g. apaired PED and/or FED. Since ideally exercises are recommended multipletimes a day, such automatic operation of both the device and acorresponding application through detecting an action within a sleepmode or predetermined time of day/time period since last use etc.significantly ease the use of the ADDEV. Further, referring to FIG. 17with a low profile self-contained ADDEV the user may receive triggers toperform exercises and perform them without explicitly activating theADSAP etc. For example, the ADSAP may “hidden” on the user's PED userinterface and provide discrete prompts and/or texts for example. Duringexercise sequences the user may be provided with an icon that flashes toindicate perform an exercise or may alternatively select to receive anaudible prompt via wired and/or wireless connected headphones. Withinother embodiments of the invention the ADSAP may be linked to a thinclient version installed on a user's FED so that whilst at work they canperform the exercise discretely without requiring access to their PED.

Similarly referring to FIG. 17 there are depicted first and second views1700A and 1700B of an ADDEV according to an embodiment of the inventionwherein the ADDEV supports extended use by virtue of its low profile,low power consumption, and small external geometry. As depicted in firstview 1700A the device comprises a pillow 1710 connected to a low profilesocket that contains pressure sensor 1725, PCB 1720, battery 1740 andantenna 1730.

The device is completely self-contained and the inventors havedemonstrated embodiments of the invention exploiting low profile buttoncell batteries, such as a 3 V IEC standard 60086 compliant button withapproximately 200 mAh capacity, with operation over a period of 12months. Accordingly, as depicted in second image 1700B the ADDEV 1700 byvirtue of exploiting button cells with dimensions of 20 mm diameter and3 mm thick (0.8″×0.125″) can therefore be very compact and be worn. Asdepicted in legs-open depiction in second image 1700B the device 1700 isdepicted inserted and projecting down towards the user's anus 1750 andfitting within their labia majora 1760. Accordingly, the device 1700leaves uncovered the user's urethral opening 1770 and clitoris 1780.

In some embodiments of the invention, the user's device measures radiosignal strength from the device, such as Received Signal Strengthmeasurements, to determine an approximate distance between the deviceand the user's interface device. This determined distance may then beused to change the user's interface device parameters, such as volume,type of display, or disabling of feedback entirely. In some embodimentsof the invention, such distance determination may be used to initiate orencourage initiation of an exercise. For example, such initiation may beaccomplished by simply placing the device next to the user's smartphone.

In some embodiments of the invention the ADDEV stores data so that thedevice may be used effectively and repeatedly without any communicationsconnection. Then, later, if the ADDEV establishes communication, thestored data is then communicated from the ADDEV so as to have a completerecord outside the ADDEV of exercise data and history.

Now referring to FIG. 18 there are depicted first to tenth screenshotsof a user interface presented by a software application upon a PED (oroptionally FED) such as Electronic Device 1604 in FIG. 16. Accordingly,the adult device software application (ADSoAp) allows the user toestablish, for example, one or more profiles for the ADDEV, one or moreprofiles for themselves, and establish—monitor—track progress towardssexual wellness. However, as evident from first to fourth screens 1810to 1840 the ADSoAp also provides the user with a calibration process forthe ADDEV which may involve solely use within the intended orifice(s) orit may include actions performed by the user external to the intendedorifice(s) such as an initial “at rest” calibration and a calibrationwherein the user flattens the pillow with their hands or another weightto establish essentially full scale reading. Optionally, the user may beasked to pinch the device between finger and thumb, for example.Accordingly, first to fourth screens 1810 to 1840 depict:

-   -   First screen 1810 wherein the user is within a calibration        routine and is asked to squeeze to a comfortable point (with the        ADDEV) inserted;    -   Second screen 1820 wherein the user is subsequently presented        with a timer relating to how long they need to squeeze;    -   Third careen 1830 indicating a successful calibration step        completed; and    -   Fourth screen 1840 indicating an unsuccessful calibration step.

Subsequently in use the user is presented with a series of screensrelating to potential exercises, current exercises, etc. as known withinthe prior art. Examples of exercise user interface screens are depictedin fifth to eighth screens 1850 to 1880 respectively, wherein:

-   -   Fifth screen 1810 wherein the user is ready to exercise and is        presented with a countdown;    -   Sixth screen 1860 wherein the user is subsequently presented        with a display for an exercise indicating their current        “squeezing” against a target;    -   Seventh careen 1870 wherein the user is subsequently presented        with a display for a successful “rep” (sequence of “squeeze” and        relax) exercise indicating that they must “squeeze” within a        range and hold; and    -   Eighth screen 1880 wherein the user is presented with a display        for another exercise indicating that they must “squeeze” within        a range and hold.

It would be evident that the display format presented within first toeighth images 1810 to 1880 allows for concurrent display of readingsderived from multiple sensors within multiple chambers and that thetarget may be modified to reflect where the user should focus attentionand develop more control over their muscles, for example, betweenleft/right; top/bottom and front/back. Other sensor data such as heartrate, blood pressure, blood flow, oxygenation etc. can be presented onthe display with formats as known within the art. Ninth screen 1890depicts a summary screen presented to a user with derived physical datasuch as an indication of strength (in kilopascal, kp, in this instance)whilst tenth screen 1895 presents temporally depicted pressureinformation. Optionally, the screens depicting the user's exercise mayinclude schematics of the user's anatomy to help them visualize whatthey are doing and may include these in animated format such that theuser receives visual indication of what they have done in addition tosimply a number on a screen.

Whilst within the preceding Figures the body of the insertable portionhas not been described or depicted in a large amount of detail it wouldbe evident that portions of the ADDEVs not exploiting a compressiblepillow, such as an anal vibrator, clitoral stimulator etc. may besimilarly constructed and shaped as one or more prior art dildos and/orvibrators or other ADDEVs. The outer surface of the insertable portionof the ADDEV may be smooth, contoured, grooved, ribbed, and/or comprisebumps and/or nubbies. Optionally, the contours may extend further acrossthe upper surface of the adult device or they may be more centrallylimited. Optionally, the depth, spacing, and number of grooves may varyas well as their surface profile from symmetric to asymmetric etc.Optionally, the upper surface may be smooth or it may be profiled by thedistribution of nubbies across upper surface regions in some embodimentsof the invention. Within others features that have multiple “fingers” or“fronds” may be employed to provide different sensations. Optionallydifferent regions of the ADDEV may have different structures such asnubbies, grooves, smooth areas etc. on the upper central bump as well asits sides.

The adult device may be provided in a range of physical sizes overallexploiting the relative dimensions and radii etc. described supra inrespect of FIGS. 1 to 4 such that, for example, the length of theinserted vaginal portion may be 50 mm, 75 mm, 100 mm, 125 mm, 150 mm, or200 mm for example (3″, 4″, 5″, 6″ or 8″) and it's lateral dimensionsmay be, for example, 15 mm, 25 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, or 75 mm (0.6″,1″, 1.4″, 1.6″, 2″, or 3″). Where an anal insertion element is providedits length and lateral dimensions may be over a similar range as thevaginally inserted portion. Whilst typically the vaginally insertedportion will have limited width variations along its length an anallyinserted portion may have larger width variations and may have alength/width ratio lower than the vaginally inserted portion. However,other dimensions, aspect ratios, cross-section geometries etc. may beemployed without departing from the scope of the invention.

Typically, the construction of an ADDEV such as depicted withinembodiments of the invention described in respect of FIGS. 1 to 17 willemploy a central scaffold which provides rigidity to the ADDEV in thoseregions requiring it which may be surrounded by a shell and then acasing. Whilst the casing and shell may be transparent orsemi-transparent over portions or all of the ADDEV it is common for theADDEV to be opaque. Within those regions of the ADDEV that are flexible,such as the pillow, for example, the structure may have no scaffold orit may employ a scaffold that has properties commensurate with thatportion of the ADDEV. For example, within the pillow for providingdividing sections between chambers the scaffold may be formed from anelastic material on a frame embedded within the pillow walls such thatthe dividing section maintains its profile as the pillow expands andcontracts. The pillow may be formed in multiple steps according to itsprofile, thickness, etc.

An outer casing may be coloured based upon skin colour tones based uponethnicity or personal preference, e.g. Caucasian, Negroid, Mongol,light, dark, etc. as well as single colour, binary colour, multiplecolour etc. According to the complexity acceptable then the outer casingmay be formed from a variety of colours and/or be patterned for aspecific design. Typically, such colours will be part of a silicone orother elastomer employed in forming the casing although in otherembodiments of the invention the casing may be coloured once formed anda protective fluid proof, non-toxic, non-abrasive coating formed atopthese applied colours. Such instances of applied colours may includemetallic lacquers, particulate lacquers for “sparkle”, etc. Optionally,the silicone may be clear and either embedded into the silicone or ashell of the adult device are LEDs, such as multi-colour LEDs forexample, allowing the colour of the adult device to be varied eitherstatically or dynamically, such as for example in response to commandsfrom an associated PED generated in response to controlling ambientlight, music, audiovisual content etc. Beneficially, medical gradesilicone is clear thereby removing the requirement for any additionalcoating (e.g. food grade urethane) in conjunction with pigmentedsilicones. Accordingly, an adult device may with medical grade siliconebe clear and formed from an initial sticky soft silicone, e.g. 20durometer, with a micro-layer (spray coated for example) of highdurometer medical grade silicone, for example 70-90 durometer, to create“slippery” surface and avoid silky smooth surface that typicallyrequires use of urethane coating.

Typically, the casing for the ADDEV will be formed from a non-toxic,hypoallergenic silicone to provide a safe smooth surface although someregions of the ADDEV may be coated, textured and/or finished with avariation from that of the remainder of the casing in order to enhanceor promote retention of the ADDEV against the user's skin or clothing.Typically, the outer surface of the casing will be formed to provide lowfriction as well as resistance to lubricants that may or may not beemployed. According to the casing material and sealing of the devicethen it may be cleaned or sterilized to a medical standard, for examplethrough a domestic dishwasher cycle. Alternatively, the device may bechemically cleaned or sterilized to a medical standard.

Typically, within the outer silicone or elastomeric casing is a shellthat houses internally, in the embodiments presented, vibratory motors,battery, control circuit, pressure sensor, sensors, and charging port.Within embodiments of the invention other functional elements may beemployed for generating physical stimulus, providing user interface,wireless transceiver for communicating to an associated electronicdevice (PED or FED) or other ADDEV, etc. Within the description ofembodiments of the invention and associated figures such elements arenot presented for clarity of description, figures etc. However, asdescribed at the end of the specification such elements may or may notbe implemented within embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, theshell may comprise a single chamber or a plurality of chambers and maybe formed from one piece part or multiple piece parts which areconnected via the casing and/or discrete or connected by a centralportion with different degrees of rigidity range from solid to a livinghinge.

Optionally, the ADDEV may employ one, two, three or more motors as wellas actuators of one, two or more different technical approaches. Forexample one or more vibratory motors may provide high end vibrationswhilst one or more vibratory or high impact gear-reduced motors mayprovide a low frequency “rumble” from larger weighted motors or throughcontrolled frequency offset “throbbing.” Optionally, linear vibratorymotors may be disposed within the regions on the outer surface of therecipient's body or the inserted portion(s) whilst generally rotatingasymmetric weight motors are within the shell of the insertedportion(s). Optionally, the outer surface of the ADDEV may provideelectrical stimulation contacts through metal contacts or conductivesilicone pads for example at predetermined locations on the insertedportion as well as the discussion supra in respect the clitoral region.Equally, contacts may be disposed on the lower outer portion of theADDEV to engage the recipient's lower labial lips, etc.

Embodiments of the invention with respect to controlling an ADDEV suchas described within the embodiments of the invention supra in respect ofFIGS. 1 to 17 may employ one or more methodologies as known within theart. Such control may be provided, for example, through a remote controlwirelessly connected to the ADDEV, a PED or FED wirelessly connected tothe ADDEV, a remote control wired to the ADDEV, and a control interfaceon the ADDEV allowing selection of predetermined program. In instancesof wireless interfaced controllers the control may be local, i.e. by auser engaged in a sexual activity involving the ADDEV, or the controlmay be remote.

Embodiments of the invention with respect to powering an ADDEV such asdescribed within the embodiments of the invention supra in respect ofFIGS. 1 to 17 may employ one or more methodologies as known within theart. For example, the ADDEV may comprise a rechargeable battery orbatteries within the shell which may be of a standard form/type, such asAA, AAA, etc. or custom to the ADDEV and/or another product.Alternatively, the ADDEV may employ non-rechargeable batteries andrequire an access to allow in insertion/removal of the battery orbatteries or the ADDEV may be disposed of once the batteries have beenexhausted. Optionally, the ADDEV may be powered directly from electricalmains supply through a transformer to support extended use or high powerrequirements not supportable by realistic battery configurations. Wherean electrical connection is made to the ADDEV this may be similarly viaa technique known in the prior art such as plug-socket connection,magnetic electrical connectors, etc.

Whilst the ADDEV has been primarily described with respect to an ADDEVfor use in providing stimulation to a female user vaginally whilst auser orally stimulated their clitoris and/or clitoral region it would beevident that embodiments of the invention may also be employed providingstimulation of the external vaginal area, labia, perineum etc. as wellas male perineum, testes, etc.

Embodiments of the invention with respect to the ADDEV such as describedwithin the embodiments of the invention supra in respect of FIGS. 1 to17 may employ a “sticky” surface for the outer surface engaging arecipient's body (e.g. being formed from a low durometer silicone forexample) so that the surface is designed to “stick” to skin so it staysin place. This “sticky” surface may be mirror surface, matt or texturedfor grip. Examples of materials may be those with durometer ideal ShoreA10 or lower, Shore A5 or lower, or Shore A1. In some embodiments of theinvention a region or regions of the casing may be formed from a gelsuch as the Ecoflex™ platinum catalyzed silicones for example certifiedto ISI 10993-10 for skin irritation/sensitization and having, forexample, Shore 00-50 hardness (below the Shore A scale), Shore 00-30hardness, Shore 00-20 hardness, or Shore 00-10 hardness. Withinembodiments of the invention the footprint of the casing may besignificantly larger than the shell (mechanical assembly) footprint,larger than the shell print, approximately the same as the shellfootprint, and smaller than the shell footprint. Where the shellfootprint is larger than the shell footprint its mechanical structuremay be such that it does not droop under its weight/gravity when heldfree, droops a small amount, droops a moderate amount, or droopscompletely according to the desired characteristics. In embodiments ofthe invention the casing around the shell may act like a thin sheet (<<1mm thick), like a fabric or material, like a sheet (1 mm), a thick sheet(>1 mm). Optionally, the lower surface of the casing designed forplacement against a user's groin/stomach may be sticky and when washedrecover this stickiness in its entirety or in different regions orareas.

Optionally, the outer surface which may contact the user providing oralstimulation may be smooth with low friction to human skin, smooth withminimal friction to human skin, smooth with moderate friction to humanskin, smooth with high friction to human skin in its entirety or indifferent regions or areas. Alternatively, the surface may be smooth,textured, and/or rough and have low friction, negligible friction,moderate friction, and/or high friction in its entirety or in differentregions or areas. Optionally, the surface may be textured with lowfriction to human skin, textured with minimal friction to human skin,textured with moderate friction to human skin, or textured with highfriction to human skin in its entirety or in different regions.Optionally, the surface of the casing in its entirety or in differentregions or areas may be used in conjunction with disposable sheets thatprovide adhesion and/or friction in predetermined levels.

Within embodiments of the invention the casing, for example formed fromsilicone, is the only material surrounding the casing and the surfaceprofile is derived from applying the casing to the contoured surface ofthe shell. In other embodiments of the invention the surface profile isderived from multiple applications of a single material forming thecasing. In other embodiments of the invention an additional material ormaterials are disposed between the shell and the casing. This, may forexample, be a preform formed from the same material as the casing suchthat the casing is applied as a single or multiple dip coating forexample, a preform formed from another silicone of differentcharacteristics to the casing, a preform formed from a plastic, apreform formed from a low density foam, from a medium density foam, or ahigh density foam. Alternatively, a combination of materials may beemployed such as two or more plastics, two or more foams, a foam and aplastic, a foam and a silicone, a form and metal. The materials may belayered, inserted, embedded, etc. without departing from the scope ofthe invention. However, a characteristic of these materials is thetransmission of vibratory motion arising from the active elements withinthe ADDEV according to embodiments of the invention. Within passiveembodiments this characteristic of material selection is removed.

Within the embodiments of the invention with active elements these aremounted to predetermined portions of the shell which is surrounded bythe casing. Other embodiments may exploit a passive inserted portionmimicking a dildo function rather than a vibrator. As noted above theADDEV according to embodiments of the invention may, in addition, to asilicone outer comprise one or more materials to provide mechanicalstructures such as ridges, shell, scaffold, etc. whilst the casing issmooth.

The foregoing disclosure of the exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention has been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise forms disclosed. Many variations andmodifications of the embodiments described herein will be apparent toone of ordinary skill in the art in light of the above disclosure. Thescope of the invention is to be defined only by the claims appendedhereto, and by their equivalents.

Further, in describing representative embodiments of the presentinvention, the specification may have presented the method and/orprocess of the present invention as a particular sequence of steps.However, to the extent that the method or process does not rely on theparticular order of steps set forth herein, the method or process shouldnot be limited to the particular sequence of steps described. As one ofordinary skill in the art would appreciate, other sequences of steps maybe possible. Therefore, the particular order of the steps set forth inthe specification should not be construed as limitations on the claims.In addition, the claims directed to the method and/or process of thepresent invention should not be limited to the performance of theirsteps in the order written, and one skilled in the art can readilyappreciate that the sequences may be varied and still remain within thespirit and scope of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A sexual wellness device comprising: a pillowformed from a flexible material defining an inner volume and having anopening at an end; and a socket formed from an inflexible materialhaving in a first predetermined location a fitting onto which the openend of the pillow mounts, a pressure sensor fluidically coupled to thefitting, a controller electrically coupled to the pressure sensor, and abattery electrically connected to at least the controller.
 2. The sexualwellness device according to claim 1, wherein the geometry of the pillowis defined by a central axial line which is the sagittal plane of afemale user of the sexual wellness device and is aligned to thesuperior-inferior axis of female user's vagina when inserted.
 3. Thesexual wellness device according to claim 1, wherein the geometry of thepillow is defined by the following: a tip towards the superior of thesuperior-inferior axis of the female user's vagina; an upper surfacefacing an anterior surface of the vagina with left and right portions ofthe upper surface being different profiles wherein the left and rightportions are defined relative to a first plane vertically defined at afirst predetermined lateral offset to a longitudinal axis of the sexualwellness device; a lower surface facing a posterior surface of thevagina with left and right portions of the lower surface being differentprofiles wherein the left and right portions are defined relative to asecond plane vertically defined at a second predetermined lateral offsetto the longitudinal axis of the sexual wellness device.
 4. The sexualwellness device according to claim 1, wherein the socket has an externalprofile allowing the device to be gripped in a first configuration and asecond configuration, wherein in the first configuration the sexualwellness device is gripped by a user of the sexual wellness device on afirst surface and a second surface of the sexual wellness device wherethese are disposed at different locations along a longitudinal axis ofthe sexual wellness device; and in the second configuration the sexualwellness device is gripped by a user for insertion into an orifice ofanother user on a third surface and a fourth surface of the sexualwellness device where these are disposed at different locations parallelto an offset from the longitudinal axis of the sexual wellness device.5. The sexual wellness device according to claim 1, wherein the innervolume of the pillow is divided into a plurality of chambers and eachchamber is coupled to a pressure sensor.
 6. The sexual wellness deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein disposed within at least one of the pillowand the socket is at least one of a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensorand a laser Doppler imaging (LDI) sensor, wherein the at least one ofthe PPG sensor and the LDI sensor comprise an optical emitter ofpredetermined first characteristics and an optical detector ofpredetermined second characteristics.
 7. The sexual wellness deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein disposed within at least one of pillow andthe socket is at least one microphone of a plurality of microphones. 8.The sexual wellness device according to claim 1, wherein disposed withinat least one of pillow and the socket is at least one temperaturedependent resistive element of a plurality of temperature dependentresistive elements.
 9. The sexual wellness device according to claim 1,wherein disposed within at least one of pillow and the socket is atleast one electrical contact of a plurality of electrical contacts, eachelectrical contact for at least one of the application to and themeasurement of an electrical signal.
 10. The sexual wellness deviceaccording to claim 1, further comprising at least one of: a secondpillow attached to the socket for insertion into an anus of a user whenthe pillow is inserted into the vagina; a clitoral stimulator attachedto the socket; an anal element attached to the socket; and a thirdpillow for demountably replacing the pillow.
 11. A method of adjustingsexual wellness for a user comprising: providing a pillow formed from aflexible material defining an inner volume and having an opening at anend; providing a socket formed from an inflexible material having in afirst predetermined location a fitting onto which the open end of thepillow mounts, a pressure sensor fluidically coupled to the fitting, acontroller electrically coupled to the pressure sensor, and a batteryelectrically connected to at least the controller; and monitoring anaction of the user with respect to the pillow resulting in a pressurefluctuation and providing the user with feedback as to theirperformance.
 12. The method of providing a sexual wellness device for auser according to claim 11, wherein the geometry of the pillow isdefined by a central axial line which is the sagittal plane of a femaleuser of the sexual wellness device and is aligned to thesuperior-inferior axis of female user's vagina when inserted.
 13. Themethod of providing a sexual wellness device for a user according toclaim 11, wherein the geometry of the pillow is defined by thefollowing: a tip towards the superior of the superior-inferior axis ofthe female user's vagina; an upper surface facing an anterior surface ofthe vagina with left and right portions of the upper surface beingdifferent profiles wherein the left and right portions are definedrelative to a first plane vertically defined at a first predeterminedlateral offset to a longitudinal axis of the sexual wellness device; alower surface facing a posterior surface of the vagina with left andright portions of the lower surface being different profiles wherein theleft and right portions are defined relative to a second planevertically defined at a second predetermined lateral offset to thelongitudinal axis of the sexual wellness device.
 14. The method ofproviding a sexual wellness device for a user according to claim 11,wherein the socket has an external profile allowing the device to begripped in a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein inthe first configuration the sexual wellness device is gripped by a userof the sexual wellness device on a first surface and a second surface ofthe sexual wellness device where these are disposed at differentlocations along a longitudinal axis of the sexual wellness device; andin the second configuration the sexual wellness device is gripped by auser for insertion into an orifice of another user on a third surfaceand a fourth surface of the sexual wellness device where these aredisposed at different locations parallel to an offset from thelongitudinal axis of the sexual wellness device.
 15. The method ofproviding a sexual wellness device for a user according to claim 11,wherein the inner volume of the pillow is divided into a plurality ofchambers and each chamber is coupled to a pressure sensor.
 16. Themethod of providing a sexual wellness device for a user according toclaim 11, wherein disposed within at least one of the pillow and thesocket is at least one of a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor and alaser Doppler imaging (LDI) sensor, wherein the at least one of the PPGsensor and the LDI sensor comprise an optical emitter of predeterminedfirst characteristics and an optical detector of predetermined secondcharacteristics.
 17. The method of providing a sexual wellness devicefor a user according to claim 11, wherein disposed within at least oneof pillow and the socket is at least one microphone of a plurality ofmicrophones.
 18. The method of providing a sexual wellness device for auser according to claim 11, wherein disposed within at least one ofpillow and the socket is at least one temperature dependent resistiveelement of a plurality of temperature dependent resistive elements. 19.The method of providing a sexual wellness device for a user according toclaim 11, wherein disposed within at least one of pillow and the socketis at least one electrical contact of a plurality of electricalcontacts, each electrical contact for at least one of the application toand the measurement of an electrical signal.
 20. The method of providinga sexual wellness device for a user according to claim 11, furthercomprising at least one of: a second pillow attached to the socket forinsertion into an anus of a user when the pillow is inserted into thevagina; a clitoral stimulator attached to the socket; an anal elementattached to the socket; and a third pillow for demountably replacing thepillow.